Chaperone meaning: Today’s Word of the Day is chaperone, a term that originates from social customs and has been carried into modern English vocabulary. The word appears in dictionaries and cultural contexts, and it also plays a recognizable role in period dramas such as Bridgerton.

Word of the Day: Chaperone Meaning and Definition

A chaperone is a person who accompanies and supervises younger people or unmarried individuals to ensure proper behavior, especially at social events or when in public. Traditionally, the term referred to an older woman accompanying a young unmarried woman, but in today’s usage it can apply more broadly to adults supervising young people at gatherings such as school dances or trips.

How to Pronounce Chaperone

The word chaperone is pronounced differently in American and British English:

In American English: /ˈʃæp.ɚ.oʊn/
In British English: /ˈʃæp.ə.rəʊn/

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Chaperone Origin and Etymology Explained - Historical Role of a Chaperone in Social Customs

The term chaperone derives from the French word chaperon, which originally meant “hood” or “cape.” Over time, figurative use of the word emerged in the early 18th century to describe someone who escorted or “covered” another person socially, like a protective companion. The underlying image is that of a covering or protective garment, which influenced the figurative sense of an escort.

Example Sentences Using Chaperone Correctly

Here are a few examples of 'chaperone' in sentences.

• I was a chaperone on one of my son’s school trips.
• Two parents chaperoned the children at the school dance.
• Her mother and sister acted as chaperones during filming.

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Chaperone Synonyms

Synonyms of 'chaperone' (noun – a supervising companion):

• escort
• guardian
• companion
• attendant
• supervisor
• protector
• matron (in older or formal contexts)

Synonyms of chaperone (verb – to accompany and supervise):

• escort
• accompany
• supervise
• oversee
• monitor
• attend

Antonyms Chaperone

There is no direct, exact opposite word, but depending on context, these can function as antonyms:

• leave unattended
• neglect
• abandon
• unsupervised (adjective form)
• unaccompanied (adjective form)

Because “chaperone” implies guidance, supervision, or protection, its opposite usually suggests lack of supervision or absence of oversight rather than a single clear opposite word.

FAQs

Is a chaperone always a woman?
Traditionally it referred to an older woman, but today it can be anyone who supervises.

How is chaperone used in Bridgerton?
In Bridgerton, young unmarried women are often accompanied by a chaperone during social events.